Rann Utsav 2025-26: Complete Guide to Gujarat’s White Desert Festival

Every year, the White Desert of Kutch turns into a colorful celebration called Rann Utsav. It’s one of Gujarat’s biggest festivals, known for its cultural shows, folk music, traditional food, and stunning desert views.

During Rann Utsav 2025-26, visitors can stay in luxury tents, watch local performances, shop for handicrafts, and enjoy camel rides under the moonlight. The salt desert looks magical, especially at night when the moonlight reflects on the white sand.

This festival is the perfect way to experience the beauty and culture of Gujarat in one place.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about Rann Utsav 2025-26, from dates and bookings to travel tips and the best things to do at the Rann of Kutch festival. Keep reading!

When is Rann Utsav 2025-26?

Official Dates: October 23, 2025 to March 4, 2026

Yes, you read that right! This festival runs for more than 4 months!

That’s 134 days of non-stop celebrations in the white desert.

Best Time to Visit:

November to February (Peak Season):

• Perfect weather (not too hot, not too cold)
• Full moon nights are magical
• All activities running
• Maximum crowd but worth it

October (Opening Month):

• Less crowded
• Weather still a bit warm
• Cheaper rates
• Good for budget travelers

March (Closing Month):

• Weather getting warmer
• Fewer people
• Last chance to visit
• Better deals on accommodation

Pro Tip: Visit during full moon (Purnima) for the most stunning views! The white desert glows under moonlight.

Full Moon Dates for 2025-26:

• November 15, 2025
• December 15, 2025
• January 13, 2026
• February 12, 2026
• March 14, 2026 (after festival ends)

What is Rann Utsav?

Rann Utsav is not just a festival. It’s a complete experience!

Conceived under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Rann Utsav was born from a vision to showcase the soulful richness of Gujarat’s remotest frontier, the Great Rann of Kutch.

Quick Facts:

• Started as a small 3-day cultural festival
• Now it’s one of India’s most iconic travel experiences
• A global calendar event
• Runs for 4+ months every year
• Takes place in the Great Rann of Kutch
• Called the “Moonland of Gujarat”
• Luxury tent city set up specially for the festival

What Makes it Special?

• The endless white salt desert (looks like another planet!)
• Luxury camping in the middle of nowhere
• Traditional Gujarati culture
• Folk music and dance every evening
• Handicraft shopping directly from artisans
• Adventure activities
• Stargazing like you’ve never seen before
• Complete peace and quiet

Fun Fact: What began as a modest three-day cultural festival has transformed into one of India’s most iconic travel experiences!

Where is Rann of Kutch?

The Great Rann of Kutch is in Gujarat’s Kutch district.

Location Details:

• State: Gujarat
• District: Kutch
• Nearest Town: Bhuj (80 km from tent city)
• Tent City Location: Dhordo Village
• It’s near the India-Pakistan border!

Size:

• The Great Rann of Kutch is HUGE – about 7,500 square kilometers
• It’s the world’s largest salt desert
• During monsoon, it’s covered in water
• In winter, it becomes solid white salt flats

How Far from Major Cities:

• From Ahmedabad: 400 km (8-9 hours by car)
• From Bhuj: 80 km (1.5-2 hours)
• From Rajkot: 300 km (6-7 hours)
• From Mumbai: 700 km (12-14 hours or take a flight)

How to Reach Rann Utsav

By Air:

Nearest Airport: Bhuj (80 km)

• Direct flights from Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Bangalore
• Limited flights, so book early!
• From airport, take taxi to tent city
• Taxi cost: ₹2,000-3,000
• Time: 1.5-2 hours

Alternative: Ahmedabad Airport (400 km)

• More flight options
• Better connected internationally
• Take taxi or hire car
• Cost: ₹6,000-10,000 for full trip
• Or take bus to Bhuj, then taxi

By Train:

Nearest Railway Station: Bhuj (80 km)

• Well connected to major cities
• Regular trains from Ahmedabad, Mumbai
• From Bhuj, take taxi to Dhordo
• Taxi cost: ₹2,000-3,000
• Many hotels offer pickup service

Popular trains:

• Kutch Express from Mumbai
• Trains from Ahmedabad (multiple daily)

By Bus:

Government (GSRTC) buses:

• From Ahmedabad to Bhuj (regular service)
• Comfortable sleeper and seater buses
• Cost: ₹400-800
• From Bhuj, local buses to Dhordo
• Or take taxi from Bhuj

Private buses:

• Luxury coaches available
• Direct overnight buses
• More comfortable

By Car:

Self-drive or hired car:

• Best option for flexibility
• Roads are good
• Beautiful journey through Gujarat
• Can stop at attractions on the way
• Parking available at tent city

Important: Many tent city packages include pickup and drop from Bhuj. Check when booking!

The Tent City Experience

Every year, from November to February, the endless white salt desert transforms into a vibrant, luxury township comprising premium tents and suites.

This is not camping. This is LUXURY camping!

What is Tent City?

• A temporary luxury township set up in the desert
• Around 400+ premium tents and suites
• Fully equipped with modern facilities
• Looks like a beautiful village
• Operated by Gujarat Tourism
• Open only during Rann Utsav season

Types of Accommodation:

The tent city offers different categories to suit every budget.

1. Premium Tents (Starting ₹5,900 per night)

What you get:

• Tastefully furnished tents
• Wooden interiors
• Soft linens and comfortable beds
• Attached bathroom
• Hot water
• Electricity
• Basic amenities
• Clean and comfortable

Good for:

• Budget travelers
• Solo travelers
• Couples
• First-time glampers

2. Luxury Tents (₹8,000-12,000 per night approx.)

What you get:

• Bigger and more spacious
• Better interiors
• More comfortable bedding
• Sitting area inside tent
• Better bathroom facilities
• Additional amenities
• More privacy

Good for:

• Families
• Couples wanting more comfort
• Photography enthusiasts
• People staying longer

3. Regal Rajwadi Suites (₹15,000+ per night)

What you get:

• Royal charm and luxury
• Spacious living areas
• Curated artifacts and decor
• Premium furnishings
• Locally inspired textiles
• Handcrafted furniture
• Attentive personal service
• Extra privacy
• Best location in tent city

Good for:

• Luxury travelers
• Honeymooners
• Special celebrations
• VIP experience seekers

Common Facilities in All Categories:

• Each tent/suite is a front-row seat to folk rhythms, craft traditions, moonlit landscapes
• Handcrafted furnishings
• Locally inspired textiles
• Comfortable beds
• Clean bathrooms
• 24-hour electricity (generators)
• Hot water
• Heaters in winter
• Room service

What’s Included in Your Stay:

Basic Package Usually Includes:

• Accommodation
• Breakfast (Gujarati and continental)
• Cultural programs in the evening
• Access to all common areas
• Basic activities

Check when booking:

• Is lunch/dinner included?
• Which activities are free?
• Transport from Bhuj included?
• Are there extra charges?

Tent City Layout:

The tent city is like a small organized town:

Main Areas:

• Accommodation zone (tents spread across large area)
• Central dining area (open-air restaurant)
• Cultural program ground (evening shows)
• Handicraft bazaar (shopping area)
• Reception and information center
• Adventure activity zone
• Spa and wellness area
• Kids play area
• Photo spots everywhere!

Facilities:

• Multiple restaurants
• Cafeteria and snack counters
• Clean common washrooms
• Medical room with doctor
• Security 24/7
• WiFi in common areas (limited)
• Charging points
• ATM facility nearby

What to Do at Rann Utsav (Activities Guide)

There’s SO MUCH to do! You’ll need at least 2-3 days to experience everything.

1. White Rann Sunset & Sunrise

This is THE main attraction!

Sunset at White Rann:

• Most people go in late afternoon
• The white salt desert looks golden in sunset light
• Absolutely breathtaking
• Best time for photography
• Can stay till 9 PM

How it works:

• Vehicles take you from tent city to viewing point (15-20 min)
• Walk on the white desert
• Watch the sun go down
• Stay for blue hour (magical!)
• Return to tent city

Sunrise at White Rann:

• Wake up early (5:30-6 AM)
• Fewer crowds
• The light is softer and more beautiful
• Perfect for serious photographers
• Very peaceful experience

Cost: Usually included in tent city package, or ₹200-500 per person for vehicle

Pro Tips:

• Visit both sunset AND sunrise (different experiences)
• Full moon nights are extra special
• Wear light colored clothes (looks great in photos!)
• Carry sunglasses and cap
• Don’t litter on the white desert

2. Cultural Programs (Every Evening)

Live the heritage! Evenings come alive with folk rhythms, local legends, and handmade crafts.

What happens:

• Daily cultural shows
• Usually 7:30 PM onwards
• Open-air amphitheater
• Free for tent city guests

Performances you’ll see:

Folk Dances:

• Garba (traditional Gujarati dance)
• Dandiya Raas
• Bhavai (balancing pots while dancing!)
• Tribal dances from Kutch

Music:

• Folk singers
• Traditional instruments
• Devotional songs
• Modern fusion sometimes

Other Acts:

• Puppetry shows
• Magic shows
• Acrobatics
• Fire performances
• Comedy acts

Duration: 1.5-2 hours

Tip: Go early to get good seats. You can also join the dancing!

3. Handicraft Shopping

Meet artisans and immerse yourself in the cultural soul of Gujarat.

Shopping Area:

• Handicraft bazaar in tent city
• Directly from local artisans
• Fixed and reasonable prices
• High quality authentic items

What to Buy:

Textiles:

• Kutchi embroidery work
• Bandhani (tie-dye) sarees and dupattas
• Block printed fabrics
• Ajrakh prints (natural dyes)
• Shawls and stoles

Handicrafts:

• Mirror work items
• Leather goods
• Pottery
• Wooden handicrafts
• Lacquer work bangles
• Traditional footwear (mojari)

Jewelry:

• Silver tribal jewelry
• Colorful beaded jewelry
• Traditional Gujarati jewelry
• Nose rings and earrings

Home Decor:

• Wall hangings
• Cushion covers
• Bags and purses
• Decorative items

Art:

• Rogan art (unique to Kutch!)
• Miniature paintings
• Block print art

Why Shop Here:

• Authentic and handmade
• Supporting local artisans
• Better prices than city shops
• Can watch artisans working
• Unique items not found elsewhere

Bargaining: Prices are usually reasonable and fixed, but polite bargaining is okay.

4. Adventure Activities

Activities Available:

Camel Safari:

• Ride through the desert
• 30 minutes to 2 hours options
• Beautiful during sunset
• Cost: ₹300-800 per person

Horse Safari:

• Explore the desert on horseback
• Experienced riders can go solo
• Beginners get guided rides
• Cost: ₹500-1,000

ATV Rides:

• All-terrain vehicles
• Fun and thrilling
• Ride on white desert
• Cost: ₹500-1,000 for 15-20 minutes

Paramotoring:

• Fly over the white desert!
• Amazing aerial views
• Professional pilots
• Cost: ₹3,000-5,000
• Weather dependent

Zip Line:

• Thrill activity
• Safe and fun
• Good for kids too
• Cost: ₹200-500

Cultural Village Tours:

• Visit nearby traditional villages
• See how locals live
• Meet artisans at work
• Very authentic experience
• Half-day or full-day tours
• Cost: ₹500-2,000 per person

5. Day Trips from Tent City

Explore Kutch’s raw beauty with curated trails.

Popular Nearby Attractions:

Kala Dungar (Black Hill):

• Highest point in Kutch
• 360-degree views of white desert
• Dattatreya Temple
• Magnetic hill illusion
• Distance: 30 km from Dhordo
• Time: Half day trip

Mandvi Beach:

• Beautiful Arabian Sea beach
• Vijay Vilas Palace nearby
• Water sports available
• Shipbuilding yard
• Distance: 60 km
• Time: Full day trip

Bhuj City:

• Aina Mahal (Palace of Mirrors)
• Prag Mahal
• Kutch Museum
• Local markets
• Distance: 80 km
• Time: Full day trip

India Bridge:

• At Dholavira
• Archaeological site
• Harappan civilization ruins
• Distance: 130 km
• Time: Full day (start early)

Gandhi Nu Gaam:

• Village adopted by Gandhi
• Traditional houses
• Learn about Khadi
• Distance: 45 km

Tour Packages:

• Most hotels arrange day tours
• Cost: ₹1,500-3,000 per person (including transport, guide, lunch)
• Private car: ₹3,000-5,000 for full day

6. Wellness & Spa

Let the silence heal you.

Spa Facilities:

• Available in tent city
• Traditional and modern therapies
• Massage services
• Ayurvedic treatments
• Rejuvenation packages

Experiences:

• Desert air therapy (just breathe!)
• Starlit serenity
• Yoga sessions (early morning)
• Meditation
• Designed to slow time and soothe the soul

Cost: ₹1,500-5,000 depending on treatment

Tip: Book spa appointments in advance!

7. Photography

This place is a photographer’s dream!

Best Photo Spots:

• White Rann at sunset
• White Rann at sunrise
• Full moon over the desert
• Cultural performances
• Tent city at dusk
• Kala Dungar viewpoint
• Traditional villages
• Artisans at work

Photography Tips:

• Best light: Golden hour (sunrise/sunset)
• Wear contrasting colors (you’ll pop against white!)
• Full moon nights need tripod
• Respect people’s privacy, ask before clicking
• Don’t miss the stars at night!

8. Stargazing

The sky here is INCREDIBLE!

What you’ll see:

• Crystal clear night sky
• Milky Way visible on clear nights
• Countless stars
• Zero light pollution
• Sometimes shooting stars!

Best time:

• After cultural programs end (9-10 PM)
• New moon nights (darkest sky)
• Winter months (clearer sky)

Where:

• Just outside your tent!
• Or on the white desert at night (if allowed)

Tip: Bring a blanket and just lie down looking up. Magical!

Food at Rann Utsav

Get ready for some amazing Gujarati food!

Where to Eat:

Tent City Dining:

• Central dining area (main restaurant)
• Open-air seating
• Buffet style usually
• Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Food Stalls:

• Small food counters
• Snacks and tea/coffee
• Open most of the day

What Food to Expect:

Gujarati Specialties:

• Dhokla (steamed savory cake)
• Khandvi (gram flour rolls)
• Thepla (spiced flatbread)
• Undhiyu (mixed vegetable dish)
• Gujarati kadhi (yogurt curry)
• Dal dhokli
• Farsan (savory snacks)
• Gujarati thali (complete meal)

Kutchi Specialties:

• Dabeli (spicy potato sandwich)
• Kutchi kadhi
• Bajra rotla (millet bread)
• Special sweets

Other Options:

• North Indian food
• Some continental dishes
• Jain food available
• Vegetarian only (mostly)

Sweets:

• Mohanthal
• Basundi
• Shrikhand
• Gulab jamun
• Various local sweets

Drinks:

• Masala chai
• Traditional buttermilk (chaas)
• Fresh juices
• Soft drinks

Food Tips:

• Food is mostly vegetarian
• Water is safe (filtered)
• Carry some snacks for evening
• Try authentic Gujarati thali
• Food is generally not very spicy (less than other Indian food)
• Jain food available (no onion, no garlic)

Book Your Trip Now!

Official Website: https://rannutsav.net/

Don’t wait! The best dates and tent categories get booked months in advance.

Start planning your white desert adventure today!

Share this guide with everyone who needs to experience this magic!

And when you go, don’t forget to take your amazing photos! 

(Featured image taken from https://rannutsav.net/)